Ariola Records is one of Germany’s most important and enduring record labels, with a history stretching back to 1958. The label was created by German media company Bertelsmann after its Schallplattenring record club encountered difficulties obtaining licences from established record companies. Bertelsmann responded by establishing its own record company, Ariola Schallplatten GmbH, alongside the Sonopress pressing plant in Gütersloh.
Although Ariola Records was founded by Bertelsmann rather than a single individual, a central figure behind the company’s post-war development was Reinhard Mohn. He rebuilt and transformed the family publishing business into an international media group and drove its expansion into new areas, including recorded music. The name Ariola was reportedly chosen partly because it began with the letter A, helping the company appear near the top of alphabetical industry listings.
Success arrived quickly. In 1959, just a year after its establishment, Ariola achieved its first German number-one hit with Dalida’s Am Tag, als der Regen kam. The company subsequently expanded from its origins supplying the Bertelsmann record club into a significant commercial record label.
During the 1960s, Ariola Records became particularly successful with German-language popular music. Peter Alexander signed with the company in 1965, followed by major names including Udo Jürgens, Mireille Mathieu, Heintje and Tony Marshall. Ariola also distributed recordings by international performers including Shirley Bassey, The Equals, The Hollies and The Troggs.
Its reach continued to broaden during the 1970s. Artists represented or distributed through the wider Ariola operation included Jethro Tull, Patti Smith, Bob Marley, Cat Stevens, Roxy Music and Boney M. Ariola’s international expansion also reached the United States with the creation of Ariola America in Los Angeles in 1975.
Today, Ariola Records continues as part of Sony Music Entertainment Germany. Its current roster maintains the label’s strong connection with German-language pop and Schlager, including artists such as Roland Kaiser, Semino Rossi and Beatrice Egli. From its beginnings as Bertelsmann’s solution to a record-distribution problem, Ariola developed into a label with a substantial place in European popular-music history.
Discover the Amii Stewart Knock on Wood Lyrics Meaning as we explore the disco classic's uplifting message of love, gratitude and optimism, revealing why its soaring vocals and infectious energy continue to captivate listeners around the world.